I Watched Kids Learn to Read (and it was beautiful)

In this S2E5 Schoolutions Teaching Strategies conversation, reading intervention specialist Linda Farrell reveals the assessment-driven approach that's helping struggling readers across America. From her unique journey as a former investment banker turned reading expert, Linda shares game-changing strategies that every educator and parent needs to know.What You'll Learn:✅ The critical difference between teaching typical vs. struggling readers✅ How proper assessment drives effective teaching (not guessing!)✅ Why early intervention before age 8 is crucial for student success✅ The Simple View of Reading that transforms instructional strategies✅ Free assessment tools you can use immediatelyPerfect for: teachers, education coaches, school administrators, parents, homeschoolers, teacher mentors, instructional leaders, school counselors seeking effective teaching methods and professional development.Linda's work demonstrates how proper assessment leads to targeted instruction, improved student engagement, and lasting student success. Her Reading Rockets video series shows real results with real kids, proving that with the right approach, we can help every child become a thriving student.Chapters:0:00 Introduction to Linda Farrell1:26 Inspiring Educator: Rossi King4:24 Linda's Journey: From Investment Banking to Reading9:49 Red Flags for Parents11:29 Reading Rockets Video Series16:59 What Would You Change About Education?19:42 Favorite Assessment Tools22:07 Success Stories That Change LivesEpisode Mentions:Louisa C. Moats, Ed.D.Decoding DyslexiaLooking at Reading Interventions Video Series on Reading RocketsThe Simple View of ReadingReadsters® Complimentary Assessment Resources Articles by Linda Farrell:The Simple View of ReadingFirst Rule of Reading: Keep Your Eyes on the WordsHelping Students Keep Their Eyes on the WordsWebinars by Linda Farrell:The Simple View of ReadingUsing Decodable Books and Early Leveled Readers AppropriatelyUsing Decodables and Leveled ReadersLinda Farrel Balanced literacy vs systematic reading on VimeoCCSS Reading Foundational Skills: What’s There and What’s Missing? - Linda Farrell on VimeoWhen teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.